By: Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto.

The Federal Government has indeed urged contractors working on the Zaria-Gusau-Sokoto highway to speed up work to meet the project’s completion timeline.

Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, emphasized this during an inspection tour of the construction site, highlighting the road’s importance in boosting economic activities, facilitating trade, and enhancing security in the North-West region.

The project, which is being executed by multiple contractors, has faced challenges, including delays in compensation payments to affected property owners and insecurity in some areas. However, with these issues being addressed, work has resumed, and the government is committed to completing the project by 2028.

The minister has also warned contractors that excuses for delays won’t be tolerated and has reassigned sections of the project to other contractors due to slow progress.

The government prioritizes durable road infrastructure and is using reinforced concrete technology to ensure the highway’s longevity.

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, has warned contractors to adhere to agreed timelines and specifications, citing concerns over slow progress, particularly on the Mafara-Maru-Gusau section, which has only achieved 16% completion.

The minister has also directed contractors to maintain the existing road, fill potholes, and ensure safe passage for motorists during construction.

The project is expected to boost economic activities, facilitate trade, and enhance security in the North-West region.